FARMERS and landowners around Swindon discussed the prospects for agriculture under a Conservative government, as a shadow minister dropped in.

James Paice MP, the shadow minister for agriculture, met farmers, producers and landowners from the area at a smallholding near Blunsdon.

He said: “Defra (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) needs to be more farmer-friendly. We need more direction from the top, with ministers and civil servants having a better understanding of farming matters.

“And the word ‘farming’ should be back in the department’s name.”

Other topics on the agenda included GM food, European policy and climate change.

Mr Paice pledged to take all the comments on board, and also expressed his support for the town’s two Conservative parliamentary candidates, Robert Buckland in South Swindon and Justin Tomlinson in North Swindon. Following the meeting, Mr Paice attended a fundraising event at Wrag Barn, Highworth.

Mr Buckland said: “I’m delighted that Jim came to Swindon, not as a PR exercise, but to have serious policy discussions with people at the sharp end.”

Mr Tomlinson said: “People care more than ever where their food comes from and how it’s grown, and I’m glad Jim shares those concerns.”